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The Vine Issue 7 – 2025
COLLEGE PRINCIPAL
Mr James Tamblyn
Catford Building
We are delighted to share with our community that the name for the new Senior Learning Centre will be Catford Building. As founding principal, Geoff Catford has made an extraordinary contribution to our community. His legacy, alongside wife Jan, is the flourishing learning and faith community we have the privilege to be part of today. Geoff and his family are humbled and very grateful to be honoured in this way. We are privileged to have both Geoff and Jan still actively involved with Pedare and look forward to recognising them formally at the official opening of Catford Building later in the year.
Catford Building – Wednesday, 21 May
Reception Commencement Service
It was a pleasure to officially welcome our 2025 Reception students to the College at the Reception Commencement Service this morning. These students have made a very positive start to their school journey and it was wonderful to have so many families and friends in attendance to share today’s celebration. My thanks to Reception teachers Chris O’Brien and Rachael Watts, and their teams, for their incredible support of our youngest students daily, and their work to ensure such a beautiful service. We look forward to sharing the journey with our Reception students and families over the next thirteen years.
Reception Commencement Service – Friday, 23 May
National Volunteer Week
National Volunteer Week (May 19-25) is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering. This year’s theme is ‘Connecting Communities’.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our incredible college volunteers. Your dedication, tireless efforts and unwavering support make an immeasurable difference to our students and our community every day. From helping in classrooms, supporting events, driving fundraising and furthering engagement with families, your contributions are highly valued and greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time, your energy and your generosity.
If you’re considering joining our amazing team of volunteers, please contact the College Office to learn more about how you can get involved.
National Volunteers Week, Monday-Friday, 19-23 May
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – TEACHING & LEARNING
Mrs Kat Elliott
Embracing Innovation Responsibly
The world around us is rapidly evolving, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly becoming a part of our daily lives, transforming how we learn, work and interact. Pedare is committed to preparing students for a dynamic future, equipping them with cutting-edge skills and a strong ethical compass.
Our vision is to harness the power of AI to enhance creativity, critical thinking and personalised learning experiences for students. Of course, we understand that with great opportunity comes great responsibility. Pedare staff have recently undertaken professional learning around safe and ethical use of AI, with exciting guest speakers and workshops that enhance our understanding of the power in these tools.
We believe students must understand what AI is, how it works and its potential impacts. Pedare upholds a strong culture of academic honesty, and we continue to expect the best from students. In some areas of learning, it will be appropriate for teachers to allow students to use AI as a supportive tool for brainstorming, research assistance, refining ideas and skill development. Our messaging will always be that AI is not a substitute for their own critical thinking, analysis and original work, but a tool that we must learn to use well.
The College has taken steps towards safe usage by engaging Google Gemini as its preferred Generative AI tool for all staff and students. This can be used much in the same ways as other tools like ChatGPT. Others that we have in our toolkit include NotebookLM, Brisk, Brisk Boost, and Co-Pilot for GitHub.
Celebrating Future Pathways at the One+ Careers Expo
On a related note, we were thrilled to participate in the One+ Careers Expo held this week. This event provided a fantastic opportunity for Year 10 and 11 students to explore a diverse range of career pathways, connect with industry professionals and gain valuable insights from tertiary institutions and vocational training providers. Students engaged in thoughtful conversations, asked pertinent questions and began to envision the exciting possibilities that lie ahead. These events are a vital component of our commitment to guiding students towards fulfilling futures, complementing the skills and knowledge they develop daily in their academic pursuits, including their growing understanding of emerging technologies like AI.
The integration of AI into education, much like career exploration, is a journey, not a destination. At Pedare, we are committed to navigating this journey thoughtfully, placing the wellbeing of students and the integrity of their education at the forefront. By fostering a culture of responsible AI use, we are confident that we can unlock incredible new opportunities for learning and growth, preparing students to be discerning, ethical and effective leaders in an AI-driven world.
One+ Careers Expo – Tuesday, 20 May
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL
Mrs Mandy Hore
Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June)
Reconciliation Week, is a time to reflect on our shared history, culture and future. It offers an opportunity for all Australians to learn about the rich cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, acknowledge past injustices and commit to building respectful relationships. For Pedare, this week holds special significance as we acknowledge the vital role we play in shaping the attitudes and values of future generations.
The theme of this year is “Bridging now to next” and emphasises the connection between the past, present and future. These themes are critical in educational settings, where young people are forming their views of the world and their place in it. By engaging in Reconciliation Week activities, students learn not only about historical events such as the 1967 Referendum and the Mabo decision but also about the ongoing impact of colonisation and the strength and resilience of our First Nations peoples.
Celebrating Reconciliation Week in classrooms provides opportunities to break down stereotypes and challenge misinformation. It helps create a more inclusive environment where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and contributions are recognised and respected. When students see these cultures positively reflected in their learning, it promotes pride and identity for Indigenous students, while non-Indigenous students develop a deeper understanding of the diverse country in which they live.
Reconciliation Week is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to learn, grow and walk together towards a more unified future. By actively participating in Reconciliation Week and embedding its values year-round, we can nurture a generation that is informed, compassionate and committed to reconciliation in both word and deed.
I look forward to sharing some of our Reconciliation Week activities with you in the next Vine and, very soon, our refreshed Reconciliation Action Plan.
Have a wonderful weekend. As always, please do not hesitate to reach out at any time if I can support or help in any way.
SchoolTV
Many of our parents seek support around excessive screen time as the number one health concern affecting their children. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that there should be no screen time for all children under two, less than an hour a day for children aged from two to five and less than two hours for 5 to 17 year olds.
Dr Michael Carr Gregg outlines the important role that parents play in managing this. His research can be accessed on SchoolTV and is most interesting to listen to. I commend this to you.
https://pedarecc.sa.schooltv.me/newsletter/managing-screen-time
HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL
Ms Lisa Daws
Today, we had the pleasure of officially welcoming our youngest students and their families at the Reception Commencement Service. It was a warm and joyful occasion, marking the beginning of a 13-year journey at Pedare for these Reception students. The service brought our community together in support and celebration, offering encouragement as they take their first steps into school life. A poem shared just for them:
As your little feet begin their race,
with tiny hands, you seek knowledge’s grace.
Today, you enter learning’s door,
and dreams of the future start to soar.
Our college welcomes you with open arms,
guiding you away from harm.
Here, you’ll learn and laugh and grow,
and friendships’ precious seeds you’ll sow.
We know that one day, you’ll stand tall,
shining bright, answering learning’s call.
Enriching Learning: Inside and Out
Junior School families were invited into the classrooms this week for Learning Journeys, offering a valuable opportunity for students to share their progress and growth firsthand. This invaluable interaction strengthens the partnership between home and school and we thank all families for the continued involvement. Your partnership in your child’s educational journey is invaluable.
Junior School Learning Journeys – Tuesday-Wednesday, 20-21 May
Beyond the usual classroom setting, learning has been enriched through a variety of events and excursions. Arts Week provided space for creativity as the centre stage, while Languages Week this week, celebrated the linguistic diversity and fostered global connections. Furthermore, we participated in National Simultaneous Storytime this week fostering a love for reading across the College. These events provided unique opportunities for students to engage with new ideas, develop their talents and connect with the broader community.
National Simultaneous Storytime – Wednesday, 21 May
Another highlight was the One50 Dance Workshops. These provided a unique and dynamic way for students to explore connecting with God through passions like hip-hop dancing, discovering how movement and creative expression can be a form of prayer and spiritual connection. It was wonderful to see students embrace this with enthusiasm and joy.
One50 Dance Workshops – Friday, 16 May
HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL
Mrs Eliza Buckoke
It’s been another busy and enriching couple of weeks in the Middle School!
A key highlight was the proud announcement of Natalie P (Year 9) as our newest Middle School Global Captain during Assembly on Tuesday, 13 May. We extend our warmest congratulations to Natalie, who joins our dedicated team of 20 Middle School Student Leaders inducted earlier this year.
Left: 2025 Middle School Global Captains: Maya H and Natalie P
Right: Newly Inducted 2025 Global Captain Natalie P and Head of Middle School Mrs Buckoke
Global Captains are instrumental in fostering cultural inclusivity within our College, collaborating closely with the Learning Area Coordinator of Languages, Mrs Liu. Their valuable contributions are seen in events such as Harmony Day, Languages Week and Community gatherings. Student leaders actively participate in various Community Service initiatives, including the new Emu Crossing Monitor duties on Surrey Farm Drive. Current Year 8 students are encouraged to begin considering the leadership opportunities available in 2026, with application information to be shared in Term 3.
In the same Assembly, Ashlee S (Year 9) presented highlights from her Community Project, which addressed the critical issue of Asbestosis. Ashlee thoughtfully shared a personal connection to this important topic and highlighted crucial support services available in South Australia, such as the Asbestos Diseases Society of South Australia (ADSSA), emphasising the need for greater awareness. There are some impressive works going on among Year 9s, and we look forward to showcasing more projects at the Community Project Display Evening on Thursday, 26 June, from 6.00 pm.
Year 7 Sustainability class enjoyed the fantastic opportunity to extend their learning by attending the Tech4Sustainability Day at Hills Christian Community School on Tuesday, 20 May. This collaborative experience saw students create presentations linking school sustainability initiatives with innovation, technology, the UN Sustainability Goals and Principles of Permaculture.
Tech4Sustainability Day – Tuesday, 20 May
As Term 2 progresses, we want to remind all Middle School students of the wealth of opportunities available to them. From academic challenges to extra-curricular activities and community service, we encourage you to explore new interests, develop existing talents and truly make the most of your Middle School journey. Keep an eye on daily notices and College communications for more details on upcoming events and ways to get involved!
HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL
Mr Josh Willis
A truly enriching education extends far beyond the classroom. Our commitment to fostering a positive and holistic learning experience for every student is evident in diverse and meaningful opportunities and experiences. Students are encouraged to explore, connect and grow in mind, body and spirit, ensuring that each individual develops a strong sense of self-worth, academic excellence and the crucial skills needed to thrive. It’s through these integrated experiences that students discover their passions, build resilience and cultivate the values that will empower them to “let their light shine” and make a positive impact. These are the moments that become cherished memories that will live with students throughout their lives. Real growth often happens outside our comfort zones, and we extend our thanks to all students for their incredible engagement in these experiences.
Year 12 Retreat: Connection and Resilience for 2025
Year 12 Retreat was an outstanding display of engagement and enthusiasm from our most senior cohort, held at Nunyara, Belair. This setting was perfect for them to fully immerse themselves in the program.
Throughout the retreat, students embraced every moment, showing a deep commitment to participating in all aspects. Whether it was through discussions on gratitude or collaborative challenges designed to build resilience and teamwork, they approached each activity with impressive maturity and energy.
This retreat offered an opportunity for these Year 12 students to connect with their peers and to take time to reflect on their wellbeing, emphasising self-care as they prepare for a demanding second half of 2025. We believe the experiences and lessons gained here will be foundational as they navigate the remainder of the year and beyond.
Year 12 Retreat – Monday-Tuesday, 19-20 May
Year 10 Outdoor Education: Embracing Challenges on the Limestone Coast
We also want to commend our Year 10 students for their participation in the recent camp on the Limestone Coast. This experience presented a different set of challenges, and it was amazing to witness how students embraced these opportunities and consistently stepped outside their comfort zones. These are the kinds of experiences that build character, foster independence and create memories that will stay with them throughout their lives.
FRUITFUL REFLECTION
Music For The Soul
Music is an international language. It reaches people from every nation in a way that words alone cannot. It can stir the soul to bring comfort, peace, healing and joy. It can shed light on some of our darkest days.
David from the Old Testament knew this. As a great musician who loved God, David shows us how to worship Him with thankfulness, even in the darkest times. Psalm 100:4-5 says, “Come to God with gratitude, thanks and with praise. For the Lord is good. His loving-kindness lasts forever. And He is faithful to all people and to all their children-to-come.”
One way to worship God and be thankful is by using the gifts and abilities He has given us. Music expression at Pedare is one way students acknowledge this, in turn sharing it with others.
Mrs Miriam Smith, College Chaplain
COLLEGE NEWS/NOTICES
College Photo Day
Get your formal winter uniform ready, including ties and the Junior School red jumper or Middle/Senior blue blazer, and make sure your hair is well groomed because… MSP Photography will be coming to the College for School Photos on Tuesday, 3 June.
Family/sibling photos will be done in the Chapel from 8.15 am.
All photo orders are now placed online, and students do not need to hand anything to the photographer.
Please follow the link to place your order: https://pedarechristiancollegemsp-sa.msp.photos/
Online orders for family/sibling photos will close at 11am on Monday, 2 June.
2026 Senior School Scholarships
Registrations are now open for the Senior Scholarship Test for students entering Years 10, 11 or 12 in 2026. This is open to both new and current students.
Applicants are required to register online to sit the Senior Scholarship Test, where they are required to demonstrate a range of skills such as the ability to interpret, infer, deduce and think critically. The tests are not curriculum-based and do not test the ability to retrieve learned knowledge, nor are they diagnostic.
The closing date for registrations is Sunday, 15 June
For more details and to register, head to the College website https://www.pedarecc.au/enrolments/scholarships/
40th Annual General Meeting
A reminder that the 40th Annual General Meeting of Pedare Christian College Inc will be held on Monday, 26 May, at 6pm in the College Chapel.
For further information, please follow the link to the College website: https://www.pedarecc.au/notice-of-the-40th-annual-general-meeting/
LEARNING HIGHLIGHT
Languages Week (19 – 23 May)
Pedare celebrated Languages Week with a vibrant program of activities that engaged students from Reception to Year 12. The week showcased Chinese and German languages through a variety of fun and immersive experiences. Students in Years 3 to 9 participated in a Chinese Writing Competition, while those in Years 6 to 12 tested their knowledge with daily language quizzes during Home Group.
Across the week, students explored language through hands-on activities such as Chinese cooking lessons, craft workshops and traditional games. Junior School students enjoyed interactive story reading sessions and Kung-Fu workshops, while Middle and Senior School students took part in cultural tastings, including Chinese snacks and German pretzels.
Languages Week was a fantastic celebration of multiculturalism and communication, encouraging students to appreciate the richness of learning languages and to embrace cultural diversity within the College community.
Mrs Grace Liu
Languages Week – 19-23 May
Year 10 Camp
Students embarked on an unforgettable adventure last week, blessed with superb weather for most of their camp. Clear and sunny skies set the scene for their hiking expedition along the coast. Spectacular views led to a picturesque bush campground in Little Dip Conservation Park.
One of the highlights was surfing in Robe, where the conditions were some of the best we’ve seen. Despite the chilly water, students jumped in without hesitation, showing true spirit and enthusiasm. Fishing was another popular coastal activity where the bites were frequent, and there was much excitement as many students caught a fish for the first time.
The adventure continued underground at Naracoorte Caves, where students explored the fascinating world of fossilised megafauna and pushed their limits by crawling through narrow cave passages.
Evenings saw night walks, games of spotlight, quizzes, charades and campfire songs and games. This camp is often said to be a favourite among students and the constant positive energy throughout the week proved why. It was a week of challenge, growth and lasting memories.
Mrs Bronwyn Dutch
Year 10 Camp – (Tuesday 13 – Friday 16 May)
Year 12 & 11 Legal Studies Court Visits
Legal Studies students recently gained invaluable insights into the Australian judicial system through separate court visits.
Year 11 students observed the Magistrate dealing with people who had been detained over the weekend and were in the Remand Centre. He explained the factors considered in the sentencing of a young offender and what support services were available to prevent re-offending. Students were very interested in attending the early stages of a murder trial, which they are now eagerly waiting to see its resolution.
Year 12 Legal Studies class observed court processes and examined the role of members of the judicial staff. The cases in the Magistrate’s Court were very insightful as the Magistrate explained the details of his judgement, sentencing and answered students’ questions on the judicial system. Students were also able to listen to the closing address of the defence counsel, who explained the aspects of his role.
Ms Jane Penhall
Year 11 Legal Studies – Monday, 19 May
Year 12 Geography Field Trip
Students undertook a visit to different suburbs in Adelaide to record and investigate aspects of liveability. They made observations and recorded features in preparation to undertake their own individual fieldwork. Different aspects of planning for suburbs in different decades were observed in suburbs such as Elizabeth South, Brompton, Burnside and the new multi-storey development in the former Glenside Hospital grounds.
Ms Jane Penhall
Year 11 Outdoor Education – Friday, 11 April
Year 3 Zoo Excursion
Year 3 students visited the Adelaide Zoo last Thursday as part of their ‘Sharing the Planet’ and Science units. Focusing on animals, the various species and how different animals survive in their environments, students attended a session on life cycles at the Education Centre. They learned how animals grow and change throughout their lives. Students then had an opportunity to walk around the zoo to view the range of animals and their habitats. What an awesome day exploring and learning!
Miss Kayla Gyles
Year 3 Zoo Excursion – Thursday, 15 May
Extra-curricular
NEWS, UPDATES AND RESULTS
The Pedare Extra-curricular Portal is the central hub for information and links to our Sports and Clubs program. Regularly updated, it provides the latest news, announcements, results and important updates on Pedare’s extra-curricular activities and events.
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
We congratulate the following students for their sporting achievements: Della M (Year 8), Ella F (Year 10), Zoe I (Year 5), Rebecca Q (Year 6), Ashley S (Year 7), Neeve S (Year 7), Abbie S (Year 6), Charli Z (Year 7) and Sam A (Year 12). We are incredibly proud of our students and look forward to hearing how they do in the upcoming months!
Mrs Alana Tronnolone
Old Scholars
High School Sweethearts
Congratulations to Pedare Old Scholars, Alyssa Pilgrim and Kyle Alchin, both from the Class of 2018. Alyssa and Kyle began dating during their final year at Pedare and recently tied the knot on 17 April at Lake Breeze Winery in Langhorne Creek. It was a beautiful celebration of love.
We wish them all the very best as they embark on this new chapter together.
Mrs Emily Chadbourne
Pedare Old Scholars Instagram
We’re excited to launch our dedicated Pedare Old Scholars Instagram. In addition to our well-established Old Scholar Facebook (Pedare Old Scholars Association), this new platform will help us honour and share the memories, milestones and moments that make our community so special.
From nostalgic throwbacks and alumni spotlights, to reunion updates and stories brimming with college spirit, there’s something for every Old Scholar to enjoy.
Tag your classmates, hit follow and join us as we celebrate the legacy and ongoing journey of Pedare Old Scholars ❤️
Follow us on Instagram (Instagram (@pedareoldscholars))
Mrs Emily Chadbourne
Community Connections
Year 4 and 5 Stay & Plays
Last week, the Junior School welcomed Year 4 and Year 5 families to our last two Stay & Play afternoons.
Families enjoyed a sausage in the sunshine, mingling with others and making new connections in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
These events are designed to build a strong sense of community by encouraging families to connect and become more involved in school life.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to Junior School families and staff. Your enthusiasm and support have made these new events a success and a memorable occasion for everyone involved.
Mrs Emily Chadbourne
COMMUNITY NEWS
Tea Tree Gully Anglican
Tea Tree Gully Anglican Church is a group of Christians who seek to serve Jesus in everything we do. Whether you are just visiting or looking for a Christian home, we aim to be a loving and supportive family for you.
On Sundays, we meet at the church at 8.30 am, 10.00 am and 6.00 pm. If you want to discover what the bible says Christianity is all about, join one of the numerous weekly bible discussion groups, or want to find out about our Kids Club (R-6) from 3:30-5pm and Youth group (Y7-12) from 7-9pm that both operate on a weekly basis during school terms.
Please visit our website (https://ttganglican.org.au/) or contact Rick Maude at [email protected] for details.
Gully Church (Tea Tree Gully Uniting) – Banksia Markets
Gully Church hosts the ‘local and friendly’ Banksia Markets on the first Saturday of each month from 8.30 am to 1.00 pm at 600 Milne Road, Banksia Park. Stalls inside the hall and in the car park include produce, fresh fruit and vegetables, jewellery, tools, bric-à-brac and lots more.
For more information, contact the Gully Church website at https://www.ttguc.org.au/ or email [email protected]
Golden Grove Uniting Church
Golden Grove Uniting Church, corner of Crouch and One Tree Hill Road, Golden Grove, has a traditional service at 10 am on a Sunday. Also, on the second and fourth Sunday of the month, we have a cafe-style church, a relaxed contemporary worship service at 6 pm in the Church hall.
Café Youth is a fun, interactive program for young people ages 14 and up looking to engage in topics of faith. Café Youth sessions start with a fun 30-minute activity based on the theme for the night, then followed by “Talk Time”, during which the group discusses a topic of faith while enjoying delicious snacks, refreshments and pizza! The cost for each session is $5.
For further information, please contact the Office at 8251 4298 or email [email protected] You can even check our webpage: https://www.goldengroveuniting.org.au
KEY DATES
Want to enrol your child? Need more info?
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